Leeds children urged to make it snappy in charity mini run

Launch of the annual Arena Group Leeds Junior and Mini Run, which is organised by Jane Tomlinson's Run For All.

HUNDREDS of big-hearted youngsters are preparing to pound the pavements in a free fun run challenge.

Up to 1,500 will take part in the annual Arena Group Leeds Junior and Mini Run in May, which is organised by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All and takes place on the same day as the Leeds Half Marathon.

The mini and junior run, sponsored by Wakefield-based Arena Group, is now in its sixth year and is the biggest free mass participation children’s event in Yorkshire.

This year’s event will be held on Sunday, May 11.

Mini fundraisers can take part in two distances – 2.5km for youngsters aged nine to 14 years old, and 1.5km for children aged three to eight.

Both routes end at Millennium Square where all finishers will receive a medal.

Children taking part are encouraged to raise a small amount of money for the Jane Tomlinson Appeal or another charity of their choice.

This year the appeal is supporting Leeds-based charity SNAPS, which helps children with special needs and their families.

SNAPS general manager, Angela Furminger, said: “Whatever the youngsters raise – big or small – will make a huge difference to our families.”

Mini and Junior Run event lead, Lynne Preston, said: “The mini and junior runs are a brilliant way for kids to get involved on half-marathon day and enjoy the thrill of being cheered on by crowds of spectators.”